First Time In Fort Worth

The bus ride wasn't all that bad. Fort Worth and Dallas always seem much farther apart on maps. I'm sure the commute looks quite different in the morning as everyone rushes off to work or in the afternoon during the journeys home.

I would be lying if I said I was not a bit disappointed when they told me I would be teaching in Fort Worth. I know that Fort Worth is obviously a part of the DFW "metroplex", but I never really considered moving to Fort Worth. Today, any of my remaining concerns were erased by our visit.

Fort Worth certainly did not seem to have the large and confusing highway system found everywhere in Dallas. I did not get to truly venture into the downtown area of the city so the skylines will have to be compared a bit later this summer. Texas Wesleyan University certainly seems like a pretty great place to be studying. The people we met today were incredibly warm and welcoming. The accents in Fort Worth seem to be just a bit stronger than in Dallas, but that could just be because of my limited exposure to native Dallas people so far.

I have had a bit of time to settle into my dorm. My roommate and I get along pretty well. I am usually exhausted by the end of the day so we do not really talk much. He gives me space to be reflective and I appreciate it. The food this week has been pretty great. We have had brisket, falafel, Panera bread sandwiches, and pitas among other things. Starving is certainly not a concern I have for the remainder of the summer. I have not had an opportunity to make it to the gym, which has been a bit disappointing. I got so used to going everyday that not going feels a bit off. I do not think it has had any major impact on my body, but it's still early. I will be getting back to my workouts soon, hopefully next week at the latest.

This has been the most social I have ever been in my life. Everyone has been so kind and welcoming. It almost feels like a dream sometimes. Spending the day with the other people teaching in Fort Worth made everything feel more relaxed. Sitting in a room with 150 people everyday can get a little overwhelming at times. It can also get a bit difficult to make solid connections with constant group shake-ups. I am sure the intent to get Corps Members to meet as many other members as possible, but in such a short time, I think it's important to start working on bonds with people you will be working with frequently during the summer and during the next two years.

The organization of Teach For America has absolutely blown my mind. I know I have mentioned this before but it is still something I cannot get over. I have never been a part of an organization that runs so efficiently. Sessions start and end on time. Information is posted everywhere on so many forums. There are always people around to answer questions or guide you to your next session. It has been quite enjoyable.

All of this preparation has certainly made me anxious to start teaching. I am ready to jump into those summer school classrooms and really dig into what it's like being a teacher. I am excited to lesson play; I am excited to collaborate; I am excited to observe and be observed; I am excited to get feedback. This preparation is all helpful but I cannot wait for the real challenges and the real fun to begin.